In a town in which only about 1,000 people currently live in the historic center, almost 2,000 routinely participate in some way in the annual Calendimaggio festival, which brings the town together in both solidarity and rivalry like no other event.

The last time I went to Narni, I went specifically looking for magic. I didn’t find it in the town, but in the enchanting (enchanted?) countryside nearby. This time, I went to Narni simply looking for a fun time. And guess what: magic.

Nothing brings out the kid in you like a visit to a chocolate factory. And given that I’m a big believer in the restorative properties of an occasional date with my inner child, the Perugina chocolate factory and museum outside of Perugia is one of my favorite places to visit.